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Boost Your Metabolism

Easy Strategies that May Help You Manage Your Weight

You hear about it all the time when it comes to diet advices, but what is metabolism? Metabolism is the way your body uses calories from the foods that you eat. Increase your metabolism and you burn more calories. Fortunately, there are some simple ways you can increase your metabolism to help you manage or even reduce your weight.

Never Skimp on a Healthy Breakfast

It’s important to eat a healthy breakfast. Overnight, your metabolism slows down. Your metabolism remains at this slowed rate as it conserves energy (calories). Eat breakfast as soon as you wake up and you’ll get your metabolism going quickly.

Get in the Gym and Try Strength Training

You may think that you only burn calories during exercise, but regular physical activity can lead to an increased metabolism all the time. Calorie-burning from exercise extends for hours after your workout. Strength training, in particular, is a good form of exercise to help increase your calorie-burning capabilities.

Don’t Go Too Long Without Eating a Meal

Don’t wait more than five hours between meals or snacks. If you do, you are telling your body to slow down. So don’t skip lunch. Space out your meals to keep your metabolism humming. At least have a small, healthy snack, such as some vegetables or a granola bar, to make sure you don’t go too long without eating something.

Drink Plenty of Water

Believe it or not, water affects your metabolic rate. Think of it as lubrication for your body. It keeps everything in your body humming. When you are dehydrated, every process in your body suffers. You are low on energy and your metabolism slows. But when you drink enough water, everything works better. You’ll also feel fuller if you drink water with meals. Aim for at least eight cups a day.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Lack of sleep affects the body in many ways. Sleep deprivation can cause increased hunger and reduce your energy (leading to lack of activity). Sleep deprivation also impairs your body’s ability to use carbohydrates, your body’s favorite source of energy.

Eat Smart and Healthy

You may have heard of "fat burning" foods and diets that help you burn calories faster. Simply put, there is no "magic bullet" diet or food that will increase your metabolism, Generally speaking, nutritionists recommend a healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Consult with a registered dietician for a meal plan that will help you reach your weight management goals.